Where and how to renew in Kansas

You can renew your Kansas driver license in person at any Driver Licensing office, or by mail if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route takes about 30 minutes and requires you to bring specific documents. The mail route is slower but works if your license is not suspended, you have no medical restrictions, and your address has not changed.

Kansas has 12 Driver Licensing offices across the state. You can find the one nearest you and check its hours on the Kansas Department of Revenue website. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can also schedule an appointment online to skip the line. If you renew by mail, you send your completed process and documents to the address listed on the form, and processing takes 2 to 3 weeks.

Key Takeaways

  • In-person renewal at a Driver Licensing office requires a valid form of ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or an ITIN.
  • Mail renewal is available only if your license is not suspended, you have no medical restrictions, and your address has not changed since your last renewal.
  • Kansas driver licenses are valid for six years, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.
  • The renewal fee is $88 for a standard six-year license, and you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card.

Documents you need to bring in person

For in-person renewal, bring one valid form of ID and one proof of your current address. A valid form of ID means a passport, military ID, or another state's driver license. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. If your address has changed, you must renew in person and bring the address proof.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have either, you can request a waiver at the Driver Licensing office. Bring your current Kansas driver license if you have it, though it is not required.

How to renew by mail

To renew by mail, read the process for Renewal of Driver License (Form DL 43) from the Kansas Department of Revenue website or request one by phone at 785-296-3671. Fill out the form completely and sign it. Include a check or money order for $88 payable to the Kansas Department of Revenue.

Mail the completed form and payment to the address shown on the form. Do not send cash. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date the office receives your envelope. Your new license will arrive by mail at the address on file. Mail renewal is not available if your license is suspended, if you have medical restrictions that require testing, or if your address has changed.

Renewal fees and payment methods

The standard renewal fee for a six-year Kansas driver license is $88. If you are 69 years old or older, you can renew for a four-year license at a lower cost, or a six-year license at the standard rate. You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at any Driver Licensing office. If you renew by mail, send a check or money order only.

Some Driver Licensing offices accept online payment before your appointment, which can speed up the process. Check the Kansas Department of Revenue website to see if your local office offers this option.

What happens if your license is expired

You can renew your Kansas driver license up to one year before it expires. If your license has already expired, you can still renew it, but the process is the same and takes the same time. An expired license is not valid for driving, so renew as soon as possible if yours has lapsed.

If your license has been expired for more than five years, you may need to take a written test and vision test in addition to the renewal process. Call your local Driver Licensing office to confirm what you need to bring.

Vision and medical requirements

During in-person renewal, you will take a vision test at the Driver Licensing office. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you will be asked to get a vision correction and return, or the office may issue a restricted license that requires you to wear corrective lenses while driving.

If you have medical conditions that affect your ability to drive, the office may require a medical report from your doctor. This is rare during routine renewal, but if the office asks for one, they will tell you what form your doctor needs to complete. Medical restrictions can limit when or where you can drive, and they appear on your license.

Timeline and what to expect

In-person renewal usually takes 30 minutes to one hour, depending on how busy the office is. Your new license is printed on the spot, and you can drive with it when ready. If you schedule an appointment, you will typically wait less time.

Mail renewal takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date the office receives your envelope. Your new license arrives by mail at the address on file. During this time, your old license remains valid for driving. If you need your new license faster, renew in person instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Kansas driver license online?

No, Kansas does not offer online renewal. You must renew in person at a Driver Licensing office or by mail. Some offices allow you to pay online before your appointment, but you still must appear in person to complete the renewal.

What if I have changed my name since my last renewal?

You must renew in person and bring a document that shows your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The Driver Licensing office will update your name on your new license.

Can I renew someone else's license for them?

No, the person whose license is being renewed must appear in person at the Driver Licensing office, except for mail renewal. If you are renewing by mail, you can mail the form on someone else's behalf, but they must sign the form themselves.

What if my license was suspended or revoked?

You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license. You must contact the Kansas Department of Revenue to resolve the suspension or revocation first. Call 785-296-3671 to find out what you need to do to restore your driving privileges.

Do I need an appointment to renew in person?

Appointments are not required, but scheduling one online can reduce your wait time. Walk-ins are accepted at all Driver Licensing offices during regular business hours. Check the Kansas Department of Revenue website to schedule an appointment at your nearest office.